Funding Arts Education
Multiple funding sources can support arts education. This page covers all of them, with special attention to Proposition 28.
There are many sources of funding for arts education to ensure equitable access for all students. State funding can be used to address priorities in Local Control Accountability Plans (LCAPs) through arts education. Federal funding can also be used to provide arts education through Titles I, II, III, and IV to meet specific needs related to disadvantaged students, professional learning, language learners, and generally ensure access to a well-rounded education. Once a program is in place and funded, additional funds available through the passage of Proposition 28 can be used to expand and supplement what districts currently provide. Expanded Learning programs can extend arts learning beyond the regular school day.
Linked from FCMAT Fiscal Alert
This page is referenced in the current FCMAT fiscal alert on Proposition 28. It serves as a key entry point for business and fiscal staff across the state.
Proposition 28 Funding
In 2022, California voters passed Proposition 28 which adds The Arts and Music in Schools Funding Guarantee and Accountability Act to the California Education Code. Proposition 28 provides a means to supplement existing arts education programs and increase equitable access to fully staffed, sequential, standards-based arts education for all students at all grade levels. County Arts Leads are working to support Proposition 28 implementation in county operated student programs and supporting school districts as they plan for implementation.
Funding for Proposition 28 is included in the Principal Appointment. The allocation is equity-weighted: 70% based on enrollment and 30% based on economically disadvantaged students.
LEA’s with 500+ Students
80% must be used to employ certificated or classified employees. 20% for training, supplies, and partnerships.
LEA’s Under 500 Students
Greater flexibility with expenditure categories. See our Small LEA Guide for tailored strategies.
Funding Sources
Arts Education Funding Sources (PDF): Developed by Santa Clara County Office of Education is a compilation of various funding sources that can be accessed to fund arts education.
California LCFF Priority-Aligned Research was created for California by ArtsEdSearch. The web page invites interested parties in California to explore summaries of research aligned to state priorities outlined in CA’s LCFF (Local Control Funding Formula). The PDF is a summary of the research organized by Conditions of Learning, Student Outcomes, and Engagement.
Arts Education and the California Dashboard: Created by Fresno, Humboldt, Los Angeles, San Diego, Stanislaus, and Tulare County Offices of Education, links research on arts education and the California School Dashboard Indicators.
What the California Arts and Music in Schools Act Means for the Arts Teacher Workforce: The William and Flora Hewlett Foundation has commissioned a policy brief from SRI Education, a nonprofit research center, which provides the first clear estimate of the number of arts teachers needed to effectively implement Proposition 28, the California Arts and Music in Schools Act. This brief offers actionable recommendations for school administrators, higher education institutions, arts organizations, and funders.
Proposition 28-Arts and Music Education Funding: Information from the California Department of Education.
Prop 28-Arts and Music In Schools: General information from the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing
Thanks to Proposition 28 School Districts Need Art Teachers: Authored by Dr. Eric Engdahl for the California County Superintendents Arts Initiative.
Chapter 9: Implementing Effective Arts Education Page and Module 12: Leadership in Arts Education: includes a set of Resources for Leaders and Administrators. These resources can help when making decisions about how to expand access to arts education using Prop 28 funds.
Proposition 28-More Dance in More Schools: This tip sheet developed by California Dance Education Association is a resource designed to help school community members, administrators and teachers remove barriers and ensure that dance is available and accessible to all CA students.
